Cap and Gown Etiquette

How should my cap be worn? The cap should be worn so that the Mortarboard is level. It should not be tilted
to the back or side of the head. The crown should be approximately one inch above
the eyebrow.

How do I tell the front from the back of the cap? The front of the cap is indicated on the inside of the crown.

Should the cap be removed anytime during the graduation ceremony? Only men should remove their caps and that should be during the playing of the National
Anthem and the school song.

How do I take care of my gown? The gown should be removed immediately from the package and placed on a hanger.

The gown seemed wrinkled when I took it out of the package, should I send it to the
cleaners? The gown should not be washed or dry-cleaned. It may be pressed with a cool iron
or steamed.

What should I wear underneath the gown? You should wear lightweight, comfortable clothing.

How do I wear the Tassel? Tassels are worn over the left or right temple depending on the school's tradition.
All graduates should wear the Tassel on the same side for uniformity. Some schools
switch the Tassel from one side to the other in unison - after all diplomas have been
received.

What do I need to know about caps, gowns, Tassels, and graduation announcements?Students are responsible for obtaining their own caps and gowns. Caps and gowns are
required for commencement participation. They will be on sale the first week of May
up through the day of Commencement at the Allan Hancock College bookstore. They may
be purchased at the Allan Hancock College bookstore for $34.00 plus tax, for black
Tassel, or $34.00 plus tax, for gold Tassel (all sizes). (Caps, gowns and Tassels
are also sold individually – price information is available at the bookstore.) Gown
sizes are based on height and weight and come in regular, X-large and XX-large and
they are yours to keep after graduation. The gown should be removed immediately from
the package and placed on a hanger. The gown should not be washed or dry-cleaned.
It may be pressed with a cool iron or steamed. Announcements may be purchased. An
announcement contains a blank name card, a time and date card, and an announcement
card with an envelope. Visit the bookstore for further details.

Bookstore Graduation GiftsThe bookstore will have an assortment of gifts that are perfect for the graduate. Please come check
out our gift options at the bookstore.